Dalila Govans

Dalila Govans was born in Guaynabo, Puerto Rico on June 26, 1933, to the late Santiago and Tomasa Cruz. As a child, Dalila was educated in the Guaynabo public school system where she graduated from high school and went on to pursue an A.A. degree with a concentration in education at the University of Puerto Rico. She worked in early childhood education for 2 years in the Puerto Rico public school system. At the age of 25, Dalila left Puerto Rico and eventually made her home in Atlantic City, New Jersey, where she met George Emanuel Govans. They later fell in love and were married on August 25, 1960. They were blessed with 2 loving daughters: Zenaida Lucas and Cynthia C. Stern. After marriage and motherhood, Dalila further pursued her education, and while working days and taking classes at night, she graduated with a B.A. degree from Glassboro State College. She began a career in Atlantic County government that spanned over 32 years, working in various supervisory capacities under the Dept. of Employment and Training (JTPA and CETA programs). During such time, Dalila helped transform the lives of many young men and women, who to this day, testify that her help and commitment made a huge impact in their lives. Among her other accomplishments in Atlantic County, Dalila was the first female to be appointed to the Board of Governors of the then Atlantic City Medical Center. After retirement, Dalila spent many of her days in her yard gardening and spending quality time with her grandchildren. She committed to a personal relationship with Jesus Christ at the age of 75, and she enjoyed attending church services, bible class and participating on the Mother’s Board Ministry at Evangelical Fellowship Full Gospel Church, under the leadership of Bishop Dr. Fred Jerkins. She also developed a special friendship with Mother Sylvia Jerkins during her previous battle and victory over ovarian cancer in 2008. To God be the glory! Dalila was predeceased by 5 brothers: Abraham, Augustine, Catano, Chagyuin and Julio Cruz; 2 sisters: Lydia Garcia and Anna McDonald. She leaves to mourn 1 brother, David Cruz of Florida, 2 sisters: Maria Flores of North Jersey and Elizabeth Villanueva (Cecelio) of Lancaster PA; a loving husband, George E. Govans; 2 daughters, Zenaida Lucas and Cynthia C. Stern, 1 son-in-law (Dorian Q. Stern); 2 grandchildren (Dorian A. Stern and Chelsea B. Lucas) as well as a host of other nieces, nephews and friends. A service will be held on Saturday August 5, 2017 at Faith Baptist Church 829 Tilton Road Pleasantville, NJ 08232 at 11:00 AM with a visitation prior to the service from 9 AM until the time of the service. Interment will follow at the Atlantic County Veterans Cemetery Estell Manor, NJ. Arrangements by and Condolences at www.adams-perfect.com